Shoreham primary school recognised with national inclusion award

A Shoreham primary school is celebrating after being awarded a national mark recognising excellence in inclusion following a detailed external assessment.

St Nicolas & St Mary CE Primary School recently received the Inclusion Quality Mark after an assessment covering areas including leadership, curriculum, behaviour, personal development, partnerships with families, and links with the wider community. The award is the only national accreditation for inclusion in the UK and was established in 2004 to recognise and support inclusive practice in schools.

The assessment report praised the support and approach of staff, noting positive feedback from families and highlighting the school’s commitment to its pupils and community. The school, based on Eastern Avenue, is part of the Diocese of Chichester Academy Trust, which funded the assessment as part of its wider strategy for inclusion across its schools.

Deputy head teacher and SENCo Victoria Bishop said the process involved extensive evidence gathering and discussions with pupils, parents, staff and governors, as well as a review of policies and learning in classrooms. She thanked parents and staff for their involvement and said the report provided valuable insight into the inclusive practices embedded across daily school life.